What Happened This Year 2011

People Who Died in 2011

Andrew Gold

Singer-songwriter known for "Thank You for Being a Friend"
Born
August 2nd, 1951 73 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2011 13 years ago — 59 years old

Born in 1951, this American singer-songwriter and producer gained prominence in the 1970s. Played key roles as a session musician and solo artist. Achieved significant recognition with the hit single "Thank You for Being a Friend," which became synonymous with the television series "The Golden Girls." Also produced music for artists like Linda Ronstadt and had his own charting songs. Continued to write and record music throughout his career until his passing in 2011.

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James Arness

American actor best known for Gunsmoke
Born
May 26th, 1923 101 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2011 13 years ago — 88 years old

This American actor had a prominent career in film and television. He achieved lasting fame through the role of Marshall Matt Dillon in the television series 'Gunsmoke', which aired for 20 years from 1955 to 1975. The series was one of the longest-running prime-time shows in U.S. television history. Additionally, he portrayed the title character in the iconic science fiction film 'The Thing' released in 1951. His career in Hollywood spanned several decades, transitioning from leading film roles to television stardom.

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Jack Kevorkian

Pathologist and assisted suicide advocate
Born
May 26th, 1928 96 years ago
Died
June 3rd, 2011 13 years ago — 83 years old

A pathologist and author, contributed to the euthanasia debate in the United States. Developed a machine known as the 'Mercitron' to assist terminally ill patients in self-administering lethal doses of medication. Conducted over 130 assisted suicides during the 1990s, bringing significant media attention to the topic. Wrote several books discussing the ethics of assisted suicide. Faced legal challenges, resulting in a 1999 murder conviction and a prison sentence that ended in 2007.

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Juan Francisco Luis

Governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands
Born
1940 85 years ago
Died
June 4th, 2011 13 years ago — 71 years old

Served as the 23rd Governor of the United States Virgin Islands. Played a significant role in local politics and governance during the late 20th century. Worked to address various political and social issues within the islands, helping to guide the territory through challenges faced in that era. His tenure is marked by a commitment to the development of the Virgin Islands.

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Azam Khan

Bangladeshi singer-songwriter, 'Bengali Rock'
Born
1950 75 years ago
Died
June 5th, 2011 13 years ago — 61 years old

A prominent Bangladeshi singer-songwriter, contributed significantly to the Bengali rock music scene. Initiated a career in music during the 1970s and became a notable figure in the genre, fusing traditional Bangladeshi music with rock influences. Founded the musical group 'Warfaze' and produced numerous hits that resonated with the youth. His lyrics often addressed themes of love, social issues, and patriotism, gaining a loyal following. Continued to perform and record music until his death in 2011, leaving a lasting legacy in the Bangladeshi music industry.

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M. F. Husain

Indian painter and filmmaker
Born
September 17th, 1915 109 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2011 13 years ago — 95 years old

A prominent figure in Indian art, contributions included a distinctive style combining contemporary and traditional Indian themes. Created numerous canvas paintings and was involved in filmmaking, producing works that resonated with Indian culture. Utilized bold colors and dynamic forms, gaining recognition both locally and internationally. Engaged with various forms of art, often drawing inspiration from mythology, history, and contemporary subjects. Passed away in 2011, leaving a legacy as a significant artist in modern Indian culture.

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Tomoko Kawakami

Voice Actress for anime and video games
Born
1970 55 years ago
Died
June 9th, 2011 13 years ago — 41 years old

A prominent voice actress, contributed to the anime and video game industry. Gained recognition for roles in leading projects, showcasing versatility in performances. Worked with notable studios and participated in various iconic series and games. Held a substantial fan base, celebrated for unique character portrayals until passing in 2011.

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Brian Lenihan Jnr

Irish politician and Minister for Finance
Born
1959 66 years ago
Died
June 10th, 2011 13 years ago — 52 years old

This individual served as the 25th Minister for Finance in Ireland. Holding the position from 2008 until 2011, played a key role during a challenging economic period in the country. Additionally, served as a member of the Dáil Éireann, representing the constituencies of Dublin West and later Dublin South West. Contributed to various policies and financial legislation aimed at addressing the economic crisis. Passed away in 2011 after a battle with cancer.

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Eliyahu M. Goldratt

Physicist and economist; authored The Goal
Born
March 31st, 1947 77 years ago
Died
June 11th, 2011 13 years ago — 64 years old

An Israeli physicist and economist, focused on management theory and production efficiency. Developed the Theory of Constraints, a management philosophy that emphasizes the importance of identifying and addressing limiting factors in a process. Authored the influential book 'The Goal,' which is a business novel that illustrates these principles in a factory setting. Founded the Avraham Goldratt Institute, which provides education and consulting on operational efficiency. Contributed to the fields of supply chain management and project management through various publications and educational initiatives.

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